Parents drive different routes to avoid junk food outlets

The majority of Queensland parents are driving alternative routes to avoid junk food outlets, as children’s pester power to eat unhealthy options is wearing them down.

Parents are bypassing fast food outlets.

The majority of Queensland parents are driving alternative routes to avoid junk food outlets, as children’s pester power to eat unhealthy options is wearing them down.

New research shows that 84 per cent of parents of children aged five to 12 desperately want to avoid arguments with their kids so try to steer clear of their favourite fast food stores.

A similar number of parents admit they feel constant pressure to comply to the demands.

“It’s no surprise that the majority of Aussie parents are worried about the junk food their kids are exposed to out of the home. Motivating kids to eat healthy is hard enough as it is without so many external factors at play,” nutritionist Jacqueline Alwill said.

“Children have a natural talent for influencing their parents, especially when it comes to food. The allure of colour and fun can make it challenging for parents to stick to healthier choices,” she said.

The research by Zespri Kiwifruit has revealed that more than half of Queensland parents have disagreements with their children when they refuse junk food adding tension to the family dynamic.

Parents are seeing the impact of junk food on their child’s behaviour. Almost 30 per cent report that their kids get upset when their demands are refused and 20 per cent say their behaviour is altered when they do eat junk food.

“It’s important to remember that many parents face this struggle. The goal is

to find a balance. Parents often find themselves navigating a tough landscape when it comes

to food choices and by focusing on open conversations about nutrition and involving kids in

meal planning, families can create a healthier environment without feeling pressured,” Ms Alwill said.

More than one in three parents say they keep junk food out of sight at home while

one in five (19 per cent) limit invitations to parties or gatherings that heavily feature junk

food to limit their child’s exposure to junk food.

While nearly two-thirds (64 per cent) of parents say they find it challenging to come up with

healthy meals or snack ideas when they are tired and time poor, The nutritionist advises that

keeping it simple and uncomplicated can be the best route for encouraging healthier eating

habits in kids.

“Adding nutrient packed fruit and vegetables into your kids’ diet may be harder than it

sounds but it really does pay off in the long run with persistence,” she said.

Originally published as Parents drive different routes to avoid junk food outlets